The art of a spin doctor

Zhang Guoliang plays Chinese yo-yo behind a display of plane and car models made up of Kongzhu.

Third-generation Beijing master kongzhu maker Zhang Guoliang pondered how he could combine a traditional recreation with the nation's march toward modernity.

As he prepared for the 60th anniversary celebrations last week, he decided to make some new creations - a ship, a car and a plane representing the sea, land and sky to show his love of China.

People playing kongzhu are a common sight in the parks and alleyways of the capital city as young and old alike make the spinning discs dance on a string and two sticks. Western observers often liken the 1,700-year-old work of art to yo-yos.

Zhang's latest creations are delicate and beautiful, but they are not just items of admiration. They can still be used.

"Dismantle them and you can play with the components. Put them together and they are a traditional work of art," Zhang said.

The string and sticks necessary for use have been artfully included in Zhang's designs.

He dismantles his airplane, showing how the propellers, wheels, lights and steering wheel can all be used as kongzhus.

In Zhang's car, "the sticks look like electrical wiring," he said. "The ship's cabin is made of two parts, with the front in the style of a steamboat."

While these creations represent transport to mark the nation's birthday, Zhang has long made everyday items from the venerable kongzhu, including earrings, necklaces and other decorations for daily use.

"Although it has a long history, the kongzhu is not only a plaything from the past - it is a culture that needs to be recognized," Zhang said.

"I still remember Spring Festival in 2006 when I went to Sydney with other Chinese artists and played kongzhu from city hall to Chinatown, more than 3 km," he said.

"People followed us and marveled at our culture. Some asked me to teach them. I believe there is great charm in the folk arts of China."

Zhang said he is now making a new work called Secret Chinese Gate with famed elements of old Beijing inside, but details are a secret that will be revealed when it is shown in December.

"For old Beijingers or people interested in getting to know the real Beijing, the gate will be an amazing craftwork," he said.